A coalition of traditional leaders from Ghana’s Western Region has formally petitioned the presidency, calling for the urgent appointment of a financially capable investor to take over and revive the struggling Bogoso-Prestea Mine.

In the petition submitted by the Divisional Chiefs of the Bogoso–Prestea Mine Catchment Communities, the leaders described the current state of the mine as deeply concerning, citing prolonged inactivity and unmet expectations following a change in operators.

They emphasised that for decades, the mine has been a cornerstone of economic life in the area—providing employment, sustaining local businesses, and driving development.

However, recent setbacks have disrupted this long-standing role, leaving many residents uncertain about their livelihoods.

Central to the petition is a direct appeal to the government of Ghana to ensure that the mine is entrusted to an investor with proven financial strength and technical expertise.

According to the chiefs, such an investor would be expected to:

Rehabilitate damaged infrastructure

Restore operational efficiency

Resume gold production at scale

Create jobs and stimulate economic activity

They argue that without immediate intervention, the mine risks further decline, potentially affecting not just the local economy but also national output in the mining sector.

Although a new operator was granted mining leases in late 2024, the chiefs say the anticipated transformation has yet to materialise.

The slow pace of redevelopment has become a growing source of frustration among community members.

The petition highlights that more than a year after the transition, visible improvements remain minimal, raising questions about the company’s capacity to deliver on its mandate.

The chiefs underscored the strategic importance of the Bogoso-Prestea Mine, noting that with the right investment and management, it could once again become a major contributor to Ghana’s gold production and national revenue.

They also pointed to the mine’s untapped potential, particularly in underground operations and refractory mineral deposits, which require advanced technical expertise and sustained capital investment.

The traditional authorities are urging the presidency to act decisively to secure the mine’s future, warning that delays could erode public confidence and deepen economic hardship in surrounding communities.

They reaffirmed their readiness to support any credible investor committed to responsible mining practices and sustainable development.

The petition has been copied to key institutions, including the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission, signalling the urgency and national significance of the issue.

As the government considers its next steps, the future of one of Ghana’s historic mining assets—and the livelihoods tied to it—hangs in the balance.